Overview
- Sponsored by Conservative immigration critic Michelle Rempel Garner, the House motion seeks to prohibit claims from non-citizens convicted of serious crimes and to block filings while related criminal cases are before the courts.
- Conservatives cite 14 extortion suspects identified by B.C.’s task force whose deportations were paused after they filed refugee claims.
- The Canada Border Services Agency says its Pacific Region is investigating 111 foreign nationals linked to alleged immigration offences as of January 20, with nine removals completed to date.
- University of Toronto law professor Audrey Macklin argues the change is unnecessary because current law already bars serious criminals from refugee status and allows immigration officers to defer eligibility decisions during prosecutions.
- Justice Minister Sean Fraser calls the Surrey extortion pattern unacceptable, points to existing laws and proposed bail and sentencing changes, while Surrey council seeks a federal state of emergency and Premier David Eby urges Ottawa to close perceived asylum loopholes.